SAM train lets you see south Georgia in style

The SAM Shortline excursion train chugs through South Georgia, offering day trips from Cordele to Archery, where former President Jimmy Carter’s boyhood home and farm are located. Along the way it stops at Georgia Veterans State Park, Leslie, Americus and Plains. The train stops at each station for about five minutes, and each run includes a layover of about an hour at one of the towns en route so visitors can explore.

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Harris Hatcher / AJC Special

The colorful SAM Shortline excursion train offers day trips through picturesque, historic Peach State communities.

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Harris Hatcher / AJC Special

Not far from the Amtrak stop in Toccoa, you will find Toccoa Falls, one of northeast Georgia’s loveliest sights.

The train was named after the Savannah, Americus and Montgomery Railroad Co., which used the track during the 1880s. The blue and yellow engine pulls air-conditioned silver cars that offer a variety of seating: coach seats (ours were candy red padded benches big enough for two adults), premium seats with tables and chairs, and an adults-only car with sofas and booths.

Special activities are planned every month, including a Christmas trip that includes a visit with Santa Claus, in addition to its regular Thursday-Saturday schedule. Fares typically are $25.50-$33.50 adults, $22.50 ages 62 and older, $21.50-$15.50 ages 3-12. Reservations are recommended, but discounted walk-up fares at specific destinations are available, and special trips may have other pricing. www.samshortline.com

• Nearby Amtrak stops: Toccoa, Clemson, Aniston

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